Irish Soda Bread

3 c. white flour1 1/4 c. wheat germ1 tsp. baking soda1/2 tsp. salt2 Tbsp. unsalted butter1 1/3 c. buttermilk2 tsp. molasses1 1/2 tsp. sugarCombine the flour, germ, soda, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the butter until it's in small pieces, I did this part in the food processor because I hate cutting butter in to pastry. Stir in the buttermilk, molasses, and sugar. Knead just until it's a smooth, uniform dough. Pat in to a circle and cut a deep X shape in the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 for about 30 minutes until the bread is cooked through. The easiest way for me to check this was check the dough in the center of the bread towards the base for firmness. Once that is firm lift it up and check the bottom, knock on it to see if it sounds hollow. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 30 minutes before cutting.

As a self proclaimed food nerd I've put quite a bit of effort in to my study of other cultures cuisines. What stared as simple curiosity led to an in depth search to learn more. I've been lucky enough to traveled some in my life, across the US and some stops in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

This endeavor was formalized with this blog but it started quite a long time before that. I wanted a portfolio to chronical what I was learning. I wanted to have something to show. That's the trouble with food as a hobby, you eat your creations.

If you see something you like please leave a comment! If you have any suggestions of dishes to try email me at Queen.Reddd (at) gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.